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Get Rid of Varicose Veins!
by Gay Redmile
Varicose Veins (or Spider Veins as they are sometimes referred to) are gnarled,
enlarged veins. The word varicose comes from the Latin root varix, which means
"twisted." The most commonly affected veins are in the legs and feet. The force
of gravity, the pressure of body weight, and the task of carrying blood from the
bottom of the body up to the heart make legs the primary location for varicose
and spider veins.
The majority of people with varicose veins are mainly concerned about their
appearance. Some are concerned about varicose veins because of aching pain and
discomfort that they can cause. Sometimes this condition leads to more serious
problems. Varicose veins may also be a sign of higher risk of other disorders of
the circulatory system. Varicose veins is a common condition in the United
States, affecting about 50 to 55 percent of American women and 40 to 45 percent
of American men.
Cause of Varicose Veins: the heart pumps blood filled with oxygen and nutrients
to the whole body. Arteries carry blood from the heart towards the body parts.
Veins carry oxygen-poor blood from the body back to the heart. The squeezing of
leg muscles pumps blood back to the heart from the lower body.
Veins have valves that act as one-way flaps. These valves prevent the blood
from flowing backwards as it moves up the legs. If the one-way valves become weak,
blood can leak back into the vein and collect there. This is called venous
insufficiency. Pooled blood enlarges the vein and it becomes varicose. Spider
veins can also be caused by the backup of blood.
Factors which can increase the person's likelihood of developing varicose or
spider veins include: Increasing Age Having family members with vein problems or
being born with weak vein valves Hormonal changes. These occur during puberty,
pregnancy, and menopause, and taking birth control pills and other medicines
containing estrogen and progesterone.
During pregnancy there is a huge increase in the amount of blood in the body.
This can cause veins to enlarge. The expanding uterus also puts pressure on the
veins. Obesity, leg injury, prolonged standing and other things that weaken vein
valves. Sun exposure, which can cause spider veins on the cheeks or nose of
fair-skinned people.
Varicose Vein symptoms include: aching pain; easily tired legs; leg heaviness;
swelling in the legs; darkening of the skin (in severe cases); numbness in the
legs; and itching or irritated rash in the legs.
Spider veins do not usually require medical treatment. However, varicose veins
usually enlarge and worsen over time. Severe varicose veins can cause other
health problems including: Severe pooling of blood in the veins which slows the
return of blood to the heart - this can cause blood clots and severe infections.
Sores or skin ulcers can occur on skin tissue around varicose veins. Ongoing
irritation, swelling and painful rashes of the legs.
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